The IAEA’s relationship with the United Nations is guided by an agreement signed by both parties in 1957 (INFCIRC/11). It stipulates that:

“The Agency undertakes to conduct its activities in accordance with the Purposes and Principles of the United Nations Charter to promote peace and international co-operation, and in conformity with policies of the United Nations furthering the establishment of safeguarded worldwide disarmament and in conformity with any international agreements entered into pursuant to such policies.”

Through agreements and working relationships with partner organizations in the UN system, the reach of IAEA services is extended and benefits can be multiplied. The IAEA partners with more than two dozen organizations. Amongst them is the partnership set up in 1964 between the IAEA and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Together they govern the Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture. The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics operates under the joint aegis of UNESCO and the IAEA, and the World Health Organization (WHO) has joined forces with the IAEA to advance cancer control and treatment. Joint programming initiatives in the area of cleaner production and the green economy are currently being explored with UNIDO.

The IAEA’s Director General is a member of the United Nations Chief Executive Board and regularly participates in the meetings chaired by the Secretary General of the United Nations.